The rewards of volunteering to help those in greatest need is the driving force behind the team of optometrists and dispensing opticians who provide the December eye care service each year for the dispossessed.

Crisis at Christmas, working with Vision Care for Homeless People, is now seeking volunteer professionals to sign up for this season’s charity work in the capital.

Longstanding volunteer optometrist, Robert Whitehead, an independent optometrist from Oundle, is already committed to this year’s eye care service –

“I have been volunteering for four years at Crisis at Christmas, plus projects for Vision Aid Overseas in Uganda, but it is good to help here at home. I find the two days very rewarding as we have such a mix of people who have lost their jobs and end up homeless, from all walks of life. There is great camaraderie and it is a safe environment. We have the right domiciliary kit and work alongside an ophthalmologist so we can refer anything straight away – I have picked up a lot of pathology over the years. It is very worthwhile and I enjoy giving something back.”

Vision Care for Homeless People provides the optometry and dispensing services for up to 250 people each year during the festive period. Elaine Styles, Chair of the charity is urging optometrists and dispensing opticians to give up some of their free time to volunteer.

“Besides the professional time donation we are looking for a large supply of men’s ready readers, a portable slit lamp and frame cases to support dispensing sets,” she said.

It is an amazing experience to volunteer for the Crisis Christmas and be part of such a fantastic organisation that helps so many people. Click here to hear all about it.